On Feb. 24, Emanuel did not win outright. He won about 45 percent of the vote, with challenger Jesus "Chuy Garcia" winning about 34 percent. The two will go head-to-head in an April 7 runoff. Will Chicagoans double down on their wish for an Emanuel-strong leader or forge a new road and elect Garcia?

Taxpayers who are footing the bills want to know and trust that people are being hired on skill and merit, period. That they're being given promotions based on performance. And too often in Illinois government it does work that way.

Will Lisa and Mike stand side by side smiling warmly at the Democrats' big rally day at the state fair? Or will Attorney General Madigan authorize an investigation into Speaker Madigan's Metra manueverings?